Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra conducted by Algis Zhuraitis. LP Melodiya SRB4118, 1967.
1. Adage
2. Variation for the danseur
3. Variation for the danseuse
4. Coda
**Notes -
This is a rare recording of a supplemental Pas de deux written by Ludwig Minkus for Act I of Marius Petipa's 1884 revival of "Giselle". Petipa arranged this pas especially for the Prima ballerina Maria Gorshenkova, who danced the title role.
In 1978 the choreographer Gerald Arpino staged the pas as an homage Spessivtzeva under the title "L'Air d'esprit".
Recently, the Dutch National Ballet utilized some of this music for the "Peasant pas de quatre" found in their production of "Giselle", with ghastly results.
--Enjoy!
Aha! Thanks so much for the information. I got the Dutch National Ballet's Giselle on Blu Ray and was wondering where the music for the pas de quatre came from. TBH I really like the variation for danseuse. A very lively waltz, even for Ludwig Minkus! It is very different from Adolphe Adam, though.
kerrykaneshiro 2 months ago
very pleased you uploaded this rarity - there are moments in it that it seems to fit right into the known/usual score and then there are new things that seem a departure. thanks again and cheers
nickwallacesmith 4 months ago
I never understood why almost everyone hates Minkus? I think his music is marvellous. This proves it.
sweetaliena 4 months ago
The adage is especially beautiful - have never heard this before! - just gorgeous! And the music is so descriptive! I hear big jumps for the danseur, then lots of little beaten steps and a manege of turns to finish for the danseuse! LOL! This is too lovely not to be kept in the ballet today!
Pearlaceous 4 months ago
The music was well-played and came through my headset beautifully. Zhuraitis was no slouch as a ballet conductor. This also demonstrates that, when he took the time, Minkus could come up with some fine music. Even in the most mundane of his scores (always danceable, however) there are always some delightful and inventive sections.
palubob 4 months ago
This music is absolutely wonderful and danceable! As the danseur's variation started to play I started to create combinations of steps in my mind almost unconsciously. And the ballerina's variation has so many possibilities... forgive me, maestro Petipa, but I can't help but be inspired to try something :)
theamazingsoter 4 months ago
I had not ever heard! beautiful! :D
palomaherrera 4 months ago